FOOD + DRINK
THE
ULTIMATE
KENT
PUB
CRAWL
The good old British pub is a tradition and an institution. It is something that many other countries try to emulate, but never get quite right( ask anyone who has ever visited a‘ tradition English pub’ whilst on holiday), and it is a symbol of British culture that is often the very heart of a town or village.
The idea of a public house goes all the way back to the Roman invasion of AD43, when not only did the Romans bring us their straight roads, calendars and central heating, but they also brought their‘ tabernae’ too. Tabernae were really wine shops which were set up alongside the Roman roads as they were built, so that the workers could quench their thirst. Soon enough locals started to use them too, ale was added to the menu, and the word used to describe these places became‘ tavern’.
Kent itself has a wide variety of pubs that range from the chic bistro to the village local, and each one has a charm all of its own. But the best way to experience each different type – and each different tipple – is to try the ultimate Kent pub crawl!
1. The Five Bells Inn, Brabourne
At The Five Bells Inn the owners – and regulars – have a passion for simple things such as friendship, good company, and the culture of Kent’ s North Downs with its stunning landscapes, beautiful flora and fauna, and excellent local produce. This lovely pub serves beer from Kent’ s hop gardens, wine from its vineyards and cider from its orchards. Everything at The Five Bells is fresh and local. Set in a gorgeous rural location, this is a place where everyone is welcome. This is a place that has a roaring log fire in the winter and even bedrooms to rest your weary head. www. fivebellsinnbrabourne. com
2. The Kings Arms, Elham
The Kings Arms in beautiful, idyllic Elham is a warm and welcoming inn, serving fine food, ales and wines from around the globe. When the staff themselves are as much a part of the pub as the décor, the drinks, the food and the atmosphere, you know you’ ve found a place to come back to time and again. There are stories to be heard here, and history to learn. www. kingsarmselham. com
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